Our local dive shop recommends using a snorkel warning flag while snorkeling. I've not seen anyone use one, nor read that it is necessary. Is it necessary for the beaches of Maui or Oahu?

We plan to be there in July. Are the snorkeling areas frequented by boats/Sea Doos? Any specifics on the dangers to snorkelers by watercraft would be appreciated! Belle

I know that if you are going (scuba) diving, a surface marker is required. Whether many follow this rule is another story, but there are definitely fines involved if you are caught diving without a flag.

Not so sure about snorkeling - I doubt it's a requirement, and if it is, I've never seen anyone towing a flag while snorkeling.

Most of the popular snorkeling spots on Oahu are in relatively protected areas that are too shallow for watercraft to enter. Typically snorkelers tend to stay pretty shallow and close to shore, so running into watercraft isn't a problem.

There are snorkel boat tours that anchor and drop their passengers further out from shore - they probably fly a dive flag, so it would not be required that you need to tow one yourself.

Aloha Belle,

You will not need a flag in Hawaii, as all your snorkel spots are off the beach and boats will not be in the vicinity.

The only time we have flown a flag snorkeling is in Grand Cayman & Belize where we head pretty far off shore where there may be boat traffic. In Maui and O'ahu it won't be an issue.

Aloha... have fun.

Yay to makai1. Right on the mark. Blackrock in Maui is famous for its walk-right-out and snorkel area. Hanauma Bay near Honolulu is protected and there are no boats there either - visitor numbers are restricted so get there early. Both areas are not to miss!

You'll find plenty of snorkel spots in the Kihei/Wailea area in water, often crowded, that's 4-10 feet deep. Little boat traffic that close in. Be aware, however, that just north of the Mana Kai (actually just north of its neighbor, the Surfside) is the Kihei boat ramp. You would find a flag beneficial if you snorkel nearby. That shoreline has terrific snorkeling, though access is difficult without swimming a ways.

Mahalo to you both!! I'm getting more excited as the days are approaching!! Belle.